Experience the great outdoors with Choice Hotels. Our Illinois hotels are conveniently located near a number of stunning gardens, beautiful parks, and astounding wildlife. Take a look at these outdoor points of interest in Illinois.
In Chicagoland
Chicago Botanic Garden
Lake Cook Rd.
Glencoe, IL 60000
847-853-5440
The Chicago Botanic Garden showcases 26 unique gardens on 385 acres. The beauty of the gardens can be enjoyed all day with a stroll through the park or a narrated tram ride. Plant collections include collections from around the world. Things to do at the Arboretum and special events are held all year to educate and entertain. The Chicago Botanic Garden offers a great way to experience the great outdoors on your vacation in Illinois.
Morton Arboretum
4100 Rte. 53
Lisle, IL 60532
630-719-2465
The Morton Arboretum is home to 1,700 acres of spectacular gardens, world-renowned plant collections, shrubs and trees from around the world. Features include a searchable plant information database, educational programs, gift shop, and more, accessible by car, on foot or via the open-air Acorn Express tram.
In Western Illinois
Wildlife Prairie State Park
3826 N. Taylor Rd.
Hanna City, IL 61536
309-676-0998
This zoological park is a 2000-acre outdoor wonderland that is home to native animals that include cougars, bison, wolves and black bears in their natural habitat. The wildlife park also houses a Pioneer Farmstead, where guests can learn about the frontier days in a one-room school house and log cabin.
In Southwest Illinois
Eagle Watching In Alton
Route 100
Alton, IL 62002
800-258-6645
The Middle Mississippi River Valley, with more than 40 miles of pristine shoreline, is a popular migration spot for beautiful bald eagles. The picturesque waterfront is a great outdoor attraction boasting boasts a 2,000 eagle migration, starting in December as the birds return to their winter home along the bluffs of the Great River Road.